By Ray Stout
Executive director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild

In recent years, intoxicating hemp beverages — drinks infused with Delta-8 and Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) derived from hemp — have gained popularity across the U.S. These non-alcoholic drinks, containing significant amounts of THC (e.g., 5 mg per 12-ounce serving), present a new frontier for the beverage industry.

While the 2018 Federal Farm Bill legalized hemp cultivation, these products exist in a regulatory gray area, and their legal status remains complex, especially for craft brewers who act as manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers in the craft beverage landscape.

For Illinois craft brewers, this emerging market offers both opportunities and challenges. The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild (ICBG) is advocating for a clear and modern regulatory framework to safely guide the production and sale of hemp-infused beverages in the state. Many local bars, restaurants, retailers and breweries have already started offering hemp-based drinks, responding to growing consumer demand for products. However, without consistent regulations, brewers face uncertainty regarding safety, labeling and distribution.

The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild is advocating for a clear and modern regulatory framework to safely guide the production and sale of hemp-infused beverages in the state.

The 2018 Federal Farm Bill legalized hemp if it contains no more than 0.3% THC, creating space for new products like CBD-infused beverages. However, while hemp-derived CBD products are widely available, THC-infused beverages derived from hemp have not been fully integrated into the federal regulatory system, leaving states to navigate the complexities. For example, Minnesota has passed legislation creating a regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp beverages, but most states, including Illinois, have yet to establish clear guidelines.

The ICBG sees an opportunity to create a safe, transparent regulatory environment that allows local breweries to “tap” into this growing market. A clear regulatory approach would protect consumers, ensure product quality and boost economic growth by opening new revenue streams for Illinois breweries and small businesses, all while providing needed tax revenue for the state.

By embracing intoxicating hemp beverages, Illinois could solidify its position as a national leader in the innovative beverage sector, support jobs and grow the Illinois economy.